Atishi takes charge as Delhi CM, Drawing on Ramayan’s Symbolism

Atishi has officially taken charge as the Chief Minister of Delhi, invoking the rich symbolism of the Ramayan to emphasize her vision for leadership. In her inaugural address, she highlighted themes of duty, righteousness, and service, aligning her governance approach with the values exemplified in the epic.

Her leadership is framed around a commitment to the people of Delhi, promising to address their needs with dedication and integrity. Atishi’s reference to the Ramayan underscores her intention to create a government that is not only effective but also deeply rooted in moral principles.

As she embarks on this new chapter, Atishi aims to inspire her team and the citizens of Delhi to work collaboratively towards a prosperous future, drawing strength from the lessons of the past.

During a press conference, Atishi referred to an empty chair, stating it would remain vacant until Arvind Kejriwal returns to power. This gesture echoes Bharat’s refusal to occupy the throne left by Lord Ram, symbolizing loyalty and devotion.

“I share the same pain as Bharat in the Ramayana. Just as Bharat ruled by placing Lord Ram’s wooden sandals on the throne, I will take charge as Chief Minister with this empty chair for the next four months,” Atishi remarked after her swearing-in ceremony at the Secretariat.

She emphasized that her appointment is temporary and meant to symbolize Kejriwal’s ongoing leadership. “For the last two years, the BJP has relentlessly targeted Arvind Kejriwal. He was jailed for six months and has stated he will not reclaim the CM chair until the people of Delhi view him as honest. The court has also recognized the malice in his arrest,” she noted.

“This chair belongs to Arvind Kejriwal. I am confident that in the upcoming elections in February, the people of Delhi will reinstate him as Chief Minister. Until then, this chair will remain empty,” she added.

Atishi was sworn in alongside Gopal Rai, Kailash Gahlot, Saurabh Bharadwaj, Imran Hussain, and Mukesh Ahlawat, who will serve as Cabinet ministers, leaving one post vacant. Her ministers reaffirmed their commitment to working under Kejriwal’s leadership.

Atishi is the third woman and the youngest person to serve as Chief Minister of Delhi. Her succession follows Kejriwal’s resignation after receiving bail in a liquor policy case from the Supreme Court. She was unanimously selected as the AAP’s leader for the role at a legislative party meeting on September 17.